Green light given for new homes on former Monkscroft school site
Cheltenham is set to benefit from 70 new affordable, energy efficient homes. This is following Cheltenham Borough Council’s planning committee, which unanimously approved proposals for the redevelopment of the former Monkscroft School site on Thursday 19 February 2026.
Designed to help meet the growing demand for housing in the area, the development will offer a mix of social rented and shared ownership homes, providing opportunities for first‑time buyers as well as those most in need of secure, high‑quality housing. The scheme includes a variety of 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5‑bedroom properties, all built to align with the anticipated Future Homes Standard, ensuring modern energy performance and lower living costs for residents.
The plans have been shaped by public feedback following last year’s consultation, with a strong focus on wellbeing and community connection. At the heart of the design is an eco‑friendly landscape that will feature natural habitats, wildflower areas, new and retained trees and hedgerows, as well as accessible public open spaces for all to enjoy. The site will also include a green promenade, a community growing area, and a central green space for recreation and relaxation.
“This is great news for the people of Cheltenham as this development is not just about building much‑needed homes. The site has been designed to revive the area by providing accessible green spaces for the community and local residents to enjoy.
“Harnessing the benefits of climate‑friendly technology, these new homes will help keep living costs low to improve the lives of the people who live in them. The plans have been designed as a direct response to housing need in the area, consisting of a range of sizes, from one‑bed flats to a five‑bed property. We are also making sure we build the right homes for those who need them the most, this includes accessible flats to address the shortages on our housing waiting list.
“We are delighted to have obtained planning permission for the scheme; it will transform this area, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact and wider benefits it will bring to the local community.”
“We’re really pleased that planning has been approved for this 100% affordable housing scheme. We’ve designed truly sustainable new homes set around generous public open space, with views and access to nature at the heart of the plan.
“A natural, green heart to the development will provide a shared space for residents and the wider community, while a new walking and cycling route will run through landscaped areas and provide ecological corridors. The aim has always been to create a safe, welcoming neighbourhood that works for nature and the whole community.”
The development will be safely accessed via Shelley Road and Shakespeare Road, with detailed traffic modelling undertaken in partnership with the Highways Authority. Dedicated parking provision has also been incorporated to support residents and minimise local impact.
This landmark approval marks a significant step toward delivering high‑quality, affordable housing and creating a vibrant, sustainable neighbourhood for Cheltenham’s future.